Polo System 1

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This 'all-in-one' computer system was released by Polo Microsystems in 1984. It was marketed as a machine that contained everything you needed to run a small office - including items that other computer manufacturers would sell separately such as monitors, disk drives, a printer, and software.

It featured two microprocessors: an Intel 80188 to run DOS and PC-compatible software; and a Zilog Z80 to allow it to run CP/M software.

It also included a modem to allow it to dial-up to online services. One notable feature was the button on the upper-right of the keyboard. This placed it into a low-power 'sleep' mode from which it would wake periodically to dial-up to the user's mail service. If any unread messages were found, the Polo would return to sleep mode with a flashing LED to alert the user to their new mail.

Specifications:

  • 128KB RAM; internally expandable to 512K; externally expandable to 1MB.
  • CPU: 80188; Z80
  • Storage: two double-sided, double-density disk drives (360K capacity)
  • Keyboard: 90 keys, all software redefinable. 12 function keys; 12 key numeric pad. Includes one mouse port and two device input ports.
  • Monitor: 12-inch RBG colour CRT. 640x200 pixels in 16 colours. Tilt/swivel base.
  • Printer: 120 cps dot-matrix.
  • Communications: Bell 103 modem; auto-answer/auto-dial.
  • Expansion ports: Two RS-232 serial ports; two RJ11 phone jacks; two RAM/ROM cartridge ports; one system port.

Manufacturer: Polo Microsystems Inc
Date: 1984



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This exhibit has a reference ID of CH41532. Please quote this reference ID in any communication with the Centre for Computing History.

 

Polo System 1


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